Do i contact and editor before the Agent?

Question

I have learnt a lot about the query process, thanks for all your help and direction btw guys... But i was just wondering, do i contact an editor before an agent, in the process of publishing my novel?

I was wondering because it'll be quite a bit to pay for editing when i haven't even got an idea when, or if i'll get it accepted. I'm hoping so, but should i contact an agent before the editor. I know not to use the agent's editing services however... Because i heard that was a scam.

Also, when in a query process should i tell the agent my age? Right at the start or after i've been accepted? I'm only sixteen see... Does that even matter?

Answer 1

First of all you should mention your age. If your writing is good enough they won't give a lick how old you are. It's just considered professional to give them an idea of what they're in for (working with your parents).



It is /possible/ that you could hire an editor and never be published and lose the money that you spent on the editor. BUT. It is also /possible/ that hiring an editor could increase your chances of being represented by an agent. Also, hiring an independent editor could shave off months of the overall process. Instead of your agent and publisher going back and forth about changes that need to be made to your manuscript, you could take care of it before hand with an independent editor. Don't get me wrong, the publishing house editor will still request changes. It's just that they are more likely to buy a manuscript that is already in tip top shape.



It's important to realize that once your query letter or manuscript has been rejected by an agent you can NOT query that agent again about the same manuscript. You can query them about a different manuscript, just not the same one. Not unless they explicitly tell you that they will read a rewrite. This is why an editor can really come in handy. There's not exactly a shortage of agents, but you want to be able to submit to the agents of your choosing. If you research agent X and then get rejected your number one choice just went out the window.



So you have to make the decision for yourself. Are you confident enough in your editing skills? Do you believe in your manuscript enough to dish out some money for an editor in hopes of increasing your chances?





EDIT: I agree with The Vet that you should have your manuscript read by OBJECTIVE readers before considering an editor. There are probably a lot of things that other readers and writers would catch--for free. Family and friends are not usually very objective.



EDIT: Nathan Bransford of Curtis Brown, Ltd. once mentioned on his blog that he would like minors to mention their age. Since he is a professional agent with a big time agency I would assume that many agents feel the same way.

Answer 2

I wouldn't do either just yet. Try to joining a writer's guild/league/group, there are usually tons of members hoping to swap manuscripts and exchange ideas and or editorial criticism. It can be a really helpful, free way of getting your work that much more polished.



Then yes, if you think an independent editor is what you need than you contact him/her first. Beware, however because this is one of the shadier parts of the industry. Just because someone claims to be an editor (or agent for that matter) doesn't mean they are. Just do thorough research and you should be fine.



It's important to note that almost every legit agent will get your novel brushed up for you, most of them started out as editors and major publishers so they typically do it themselves. So if you think your novel has a chance of getting picked up with professional editing, then your new agent will probably help you in that arena as well as sales.



As far as your age goes, technically you never have to tell them. There's an issue called age discrimination and it's illegal. It usually applies to seniors, but you'd be covered also (assuming). That being said, just being up front and honest with people will get you a long way, but you probably won't get picked up by anybody at 16. That's just the way things go. However, it would be a valuable experience, and you may make some great contacts by querying so take the chance, I say.



Just be prepared for the reality of your situation, and best of luck to you!

Answer 3

First you get it to your editor then to your agent

Answer 4

yes